Subluxation

What is Subluxation?

The word “subluxation” comes from the Latin words meaning “to dislocate” (luxare) and “somewhat or slightly” (sub).   A subluxation means a slight dislocation (misalignment) or biomechanical malfunctioning of the vertebrae (the bones of the spine).   These disturbances may irritate nerve roots and the blood vessels which branch off from the spinal cord between each of the vertebrae.   This irritation may cause pain and dysfunction in muscle, lymphatic and organ tissue, as well as neurologic imbalance in the normal body processes.

How Do You Get Subluxations?

There are three basic causes of subluxations.  Physical causes could include slips and falls, accidents, repetitive motions poor posture and improper lifting.  Emotions such as grief, anger and fear can cause subluxations.  Chemical causes could include alcohol, drugs, pollution and poor diet.

How Do I Know If I Have A Subluxation?

You can have subluxations and not even know it.  Like the early stages of tooth decay or cancer, subluxations can be present before warning signs appear.  The results of a thorough examination by a chiropractor can show the location and severity of subluxations you may have.

Can Subluxations Clear Up On Their Own?

Sometimes.  Today’s hectic lifestyles are a constant source of subluxations.  Fortunately, our bodies have the ability to self-correct many of these problems as we bend and stretch, or when we sleep at night.  When subluxations don’t resolve, you need to see a chiropractic doctor!

How Is Subluxation Corrected?

Doctors of Chiropractic are specialists in neuromusculoskeletal conditions. They are trained to restore the misaligned vertebrae to their proper position in the spinal column. They do this manually, utilizing the chiropractic procedure known as “spinal adjustment”. Your chiropractor, in most cases, will use his or her hands in applying corrective pressure to the spine in a specific direction and location.